South Lake Hospital honored with 2012 Community Benefit Achievement Award

12:41 p.m. EST, October 22, 2012|Sara Glafcke, Journatic News Service

Clermont South Lake Hospital was honored with the 2012 Community Benefit Achievement Award from the Florida Hospital Association (FHA) on Oct. 16.

The hospital received the award at the annual FHA Celebration of Achievement in Quality and Service Awards.

The award is given to one large (more than 150 beds) and one small (fewer than 150 beds) hospital each year that distinguishes itself through efforts to improve the health and wellbeing of their communities demonstrated by a project, program or initiative.

South Lake Hospital received the award for its commitment to wellness in activities including sports, fitness and education, which are incorporated into all aspects of the campus.

According to a press release, South Lake Hospital president John Moore stated, "We are honored to receive this recognition. Every program and service South Lake Hospital provides is created by focusing on the healthcare needs of our community and we have been fortunate to be able to become a leader in providing quality preventative healthcare."

The hospital is home to the National Training Center, a wellness facility that provides programming for youth and teens that focuses on healthy lifestyle habits, including fitness classes, recreational classes and competitive sports teams.

For underserved youth in the community, the hospital provides scholarships, giving the opportunity for all South Lake residents to have access to physical fitness. Free memberships are also provided to the local fire department.

Adults in the community can take classes on topics including cessation and diabetes, with free access to the wellness center.